Car accidents are frightening regardless of their severity. After the initial chaos quiets down, victims must face the even more overwhelming prospect of recovering the money they need to cover their medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses. So, how do you figure out who pays for the wreck? To answer that question, you need to know the basics of car accident liability in California. 

Understanding Auto Accident Liability 

In a car accident claim, liability refers to who is legally responsible for the crash. In California, people who suffer car accident injuries file a claim with the at-fault driver’s auto insurance company requesting compensation for their financial and personal losses. State law requires all drivers to carry liability insurance for any personal injury or property damage they cause. 

One of the most common questions car accident lawyers hear is, “What if I am partly at fault for the crash?” That’s where California’s pure comparative negligence law applies. Under this rule, you can still recover compensation for injuries after a collision, even if you share some blame. However, the amount you receive will be reduced by your percentage of liability, which is assigned by an insurance company, judge, or jury.  

Who Could Be Liable After a Car Crash in Sacramento?

Establishing liability following a motor vehicle accident is not always a clear-cut case of blaming the careless driver. Numerous factors can contribute to a collision and affect liability. Potentially liable parties could include:

  • The other driver(s)
  • The vehicle owner
  • A negligent property owner
  • Businesses like automakers and parts manufacturers 
  • Government agencies 

A California car accident lawyer will investigate the cause of the accident to establish liability. They can also advocate for you and pursue compensation from all responsible parties. 

What Happens When Liability Is Shared?

Generally, when numerous parties share responsibility for a wreck, compensation is divided among the responsible parties based on each party’s portion of fault. Unraveling who pays what amount of compensation based on shared liability can be challenging. Before accepting compensation from anyone, consult an experienced California car accident attorney. Insurance companies will likely try to blame you for the accident to minimize or eliminate their payout. A tough attorney can prevent the insurer from acting in bad faith.  

Steps to Take After a Car Accident

Protect yourself after a Sacramento car accident by following these steps: 

  • Check yourself and others for injuries. 
  • Call 911. 
  • Exchange names, insurance information, and license plate numbers with the other driver(s).
  • Document the accident scene with photos and videos.
  • Ask for witness contact information.
  • Seek immediate medical attention.
  • Check your auto insurance policy for the deadline to notify the insurer of the accident. 
  • Keep track of your medical expenses and other losses.
  • Follow your doctor’s treatment plan.
  • Contact an experienced Sacramento car accident attorney. 

Contact Our Trusted Car Accident Lawyers Now

The legal team at Demas Law Group can help you navigate the challenges of filing a Sacramento car accident claim. We’ll advocate for you and develop a comprehensive strategy to pursue maximum compensation for your medical expenses and other losses. Contact our office today to arrange a free consultation.